May 13, 2025

What Is a Links Style Golf Course?

Ah, links-style golf courses. If you've ever watched a British Open or taken a golf trip to Scotland, you've seen these beauties in action. But what exactly makes a links course different from your typical parkland track? Let's take a stroll through the sandy dunes, unpredictable weather, and ancient design that define these unique courses. Spoiler: you're probably going to want to bring an extra sweater and a sense of adventure!

The Origins of Links Golf

Forget manicured fairways and water features. Links courses are where golf began, springing up in the coastal lands of Scotland. These courses are often situated on sandy, undulating terrain by the sea—land that was pretty much useless for farming but perfect for a round of golf. Links land, named after the Old English word "hlinc" (meaning rising ground or ridge), is characterized by its natural features: dunes, sandy soil, and sea breezes. This makes the landscape as unpredictable as your Aunt Edna's holiday fruitcake.

Because of the natural terrain, links courses often feature few trees, leaving golfers exposed to the elements. The wind plays a massive role in shaping the game, and on some days, it might feel like Mother Nature has a personal vendetta against your scorecard. This isn't golf for the faint of heart; it’s for those who love a challenge and a good story to tell in the clubhouse.

What Sets Links Courses Apart?

So, what makes a links course truly a links course? It's not just about location; it's also about design and playability. Here are some defining characteristics:

Natural Terrain: Links courses use the land's natural undulations and features, meaning you get rolling fairways and unpredictable bounces. It's golf in its rawest form—sort of like cooking with ingredients straight from the garden.
Sand and Dunes: The sandy base of links land offers excellent drainage, which is why these courses can stay playable even in the rain. Bunkers are often deep and daunting, resembling craters more than the sand traps you might find at your local club.
Wind and Weather: The open layout exposes players to the whims of the weather. One minute it's calm, and the next, you're battling gale-force winds that make your ball dance like a leaf in a storm.
Firm and Fast Conditions: Thanks to the sandy soil, the course plays firm and fast, meaning the ball rolls forever. This demands a different strategy—think bump-and-run rather than sky-high approach shots.

It's this combination of elements that makes links golf a unique adventure. The unpredictability of the conditions means no two rounds are ever the same, which keeps things exciting, if a bit nerve-wracking. But hey, where's the fun in predictability?

Playing Strategy: When the Wind's Your Frenemy

Playing a links course is a bit like flying a kite—fun, but only if you know how to handle the wind. Here are some tips to help you navigate the blustery conditions:

Keep It Low: The lower you hit the ball, the less the wind can mess with it. Think of it as playing hide and seek with the wind—if it can't see your ball, it can't push it around.
Use the Ground: Links golf is all about using the contours of the land. Opt for low, running shots that take advantage of the firm, fast fairways. It's like nature's version of mini-golf.
Choose the Right Club: The wind can make club selection tricky. A headwind might mean reaching for a longer club, while a tailwind could have you clubbing down. Be ready to adapt and trust your instincts.
Stay Patient: Links golf requires patience and creativity. Accept that not every shot will go as planned and that the elements are part of the challenge. It’s like golf’s version of jazz—improvisation is key.

And remember, while it might be tempting to blame the wind for a bad shot, sometimes it's just you. But hey, what’s golf without a little self-deprecation?

The Role of Bunkers: More Than Just Sand Traps

If you've ever fallen into a bunker on a links course, you know it's not a walk in the park. These sand traps are often deep, with steep faces that can make escape feel like climbing out of a pit. They're strategically placed to catch wayward shots, and they’ve been known to turn a round upside down faster than you can say "triple bogey."

Here are some things to consider when you find yourself in the sandy depths:

Assess the Lie: Not all bunker lies are created equal. Take a moment to evaluate the situation. Is the ball buried? Sitting up nicely? Knowing the lie can help you choose the right club and strategy.
Get Lofty: Use a club with enough loft to clear the lip of the bunker. The last thing you want is to hit the ball into the face of the bunker—it's like hitting the snooze button on your alarm clock and expecting to wake up on time.
Commit to the Shot: Half-hearted swings lead to disaster. Commit to your shot with confidence, and don't be afraid to get a little sand in your shoes.

While bunkers can be daunting, mastering them can give you an edge. Plus, they make for some great stories over a post-round beverage.

Greens and Putting Challenges

Links greens are often large, undulating, and fast. They demand creativity and touch, making putting an art form rather than a science. Here’s how to keep your putts on track:

Read the Greens: Take time to study the contours and slopes. A good read can save you strokes and make you feel like a putting savant.
Mind the Wind: Yes, even on the greens, the wind can affect your ball. Keep this in mind, especially on long putts.
Pace Yourself: Links greens can be lightning-fast. Focus on pace rather than trying to hole every putt. A well-paced putt is less likely to leave you a knee-knocking comeback.

Remember, putting on links courses is as much about feel as it is about precision. Embrace the challenge and savor the satisfaction of a well-executed putt.

Weather: The Unpredictable Partner

Links courses are notorious for their unpredictable weather. Sunshine, rain, wind—you might encounter all three in a single round. Here’s how to prepare:

Layer Up: Wear layers you can easily add or remove as the weather changes. It’s like dressing for a day at the beach, but with more golf and less sandcastle building.
Waterproof Gear: Invest in waterproof clothing and a good set of rain gloves. Staying dry can make the difference between a fun round and a miserable slog.
Stay Positive: Weather is just part of the adventure on a links course. Embrace it and remember, a little rain never hurt anyone (except the Wicked Witch of the West).

With the right mindset and preparation, the weather becomes just another element of the links experience, adding to the stories you'll share later.

Famous Links Courses You Might Know

Some of the world's most iconic courses are links. Let's take a quick tour of a few you might recognize:

St Andrews (Old Course): The granddaddy of them all, St Andrews is the oldest golf course in the world. With its wide fairways, deep bunkers, and the infamous Swilcan Bridge, it's a bucket-list destination for any golfer.
Royal Troon: Known for its famous "Postage Stamp" par-3 eighth hole, Royal Troon is a challenging links course with a mix of long and short holes that test every aspect of your game.
Royal Portrush: Located in Northern Ireland, this links course hosted The Open in 2019. It's known for its stunning coastal views and demanding layout.

Playing these courses is like stepping into golf history, experiencing the game as it was meant to be played.

Links Golf: A Test of Skill and Strategy

Links golf isn't just a test of skill; it's a test of strategy and mental toughness. The shifting winds and challenging terrain require you to think differently, adapt quickly, and embrace the unexpected. Here’s how to approach a links round:

Develop a Game Plan: Study the course layout before you play. Knowing where the trouble spots are can help you avoid them (or at least prepare for them).
Stay Flexible: Conditions can change rapidly, so be ready to adjust your strategy on the fly. It's like a game of chess, but with more walking and fewer bishops.
Focus on Execution: Links golf rewards precision and creativity. Focus on executing each shot to the best of your ability, and don't get bogged down by the occasional bad break.

Remember, links golf is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about the final score. Soak in the scenery, savor the challenge, and don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the unique beauty of the course.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Clubs Ready

Playing on a links course can be tough on your clubs. Sand, wind, and sea air can all take their toll, which is why it's important to keep your equipment in top shape. Here's how:

Regular Cleaning: Clean your clubs after every round to remove sand and salt residue. A clean clubface ensures better contact and spin.
Use The Club Washer: With its gentle cleaning solution and sturdy construction, The Club Washer is perfect for getting your clubs squeaky clean without damaging them. It's like a spa day for your irons and wedges.
Check for Damage: Inspect your clubs for any signs of wear or damage, especially after a challenging round. Catching issues early can prevent bigger problems down the line.

Your clubs are your tools, and taking care of them ensures they perform at their best, no matter how challenging the course.

Final Thoughts

Links-style golf courses offer a unique and thrilling experience that challenges every aspect of your game. From the unpredictable weather to the strategic demands of the course, playing links golf is an adventure like no other. Remember to keep your clubs in top shape with The Club Washer, and embrace the journey. After all, it's not just about the score—it's about the stories you create along the way.